Long-lasting party makeup :: Makeup tips

How do female crew members manage to keep their make-up on in place and looking so fresh when they are working hard and for long hours?

Crew members are trained by experts on a recommended sequence to follow – starting with using the correct skincare products to following a specific make-up routine. They use a powder over their foundation that helps to ‘set’ the make-up and therefore lasts longer; they also re-apply their foundation or powder, as well as blusher, throughout the flight.

Blusher plays a big part in helping the skin look fresh as it gives the illusion of a healthy glow even during long flights. Foundation and powder is applied on to the lip, under the lipstick, to make the lipstick last longer as well. The use of lip gloss or lipstick that contains gloss is not recommended as this could cause the lipstick to wear off easily.

Is concealer a much-used product to disguise potential dark circles and tired eyes?

Concealer is highly recommended for dark circles, however when applied you need to have the correct colour in order for the circles not to appear darker. A product with light reflectors in is extremely good for this and works better than a normal concealer. Concealer can also be used to cover pigmentation as well as pimples.

Are there any no no’s when it comes to grooming and make-up?

The key guidelines are:

● Your foundation needs to be as close to your natural skin colour as possible in order for your skin to appear even.

● Do not use lip gloss over lipstick as the colour wears off quicker and the gloss can change the pigment in the lipstick giving it a different colour.

● Be careful of using bronzer as it can make the skin appear ‘tired’, especially under bright lights.

● Be mindful when choosing mascara, as waterproof mascara tend to dry out lashes when used over long periods and for long hours at a time.

● Do not draw your lip pencil outside of your lip line.

● Using eye-liner on the top lid will give the appearance of more open, larger eyes, for those ultra long nights.

Is there one top tip or ‘secret’ that you reveal to every member of the cabin crew?

There is no top secret as such, but it is recommended that cabin crew follow a skincare routine that helps them deal with the different hours that they work. Exfoliation and masks are highly recommended as it helps to enhance the appearance of the skin.

What about after a flight – is there any routine to follow that our readers should adopt for themselves after a big night out?

Rest is definitely recommended as it helps with cell renewal and rejuvenation which helps our skin to repair and look immaculate. We recommend that staff stick to a strict skincare routine and always remove their make-up after a flight. Depending on the need of the skin at the time, a face mask and eye mask can be applied. In areas of high pollution we also recommend them to exfoliate and apply a Vitamin C mask to the skin. Anti-oxidants are also recommended – these products contain Vitamin A, C and E.

For our readers who will be flying this Christmas, what are your tips on how to look great when stepping off a flight on arrival at your destination?

● Avoid wearing make-up during the flight; if make-up is a must use a light concealer or tinted moisturiser, a bit of mascara, blusher and lip gloss or lipstick – try to avoid heavy make-up.

● Use lip balm throughout the flight.

● Apply body lotion at intervals throughout the flight.

● Before landing use a cleanser or daily exfoliator, moisturiser and an eye gel – this will help skin appear vibrant and feel fresh.

● After cleansing, apply your makeup; we recommend using under-eye concealers with light reflectors to help the eyes appear refreshed.

● For a fresh look use a natural foundation and soft blusher (light pink or peach), mascara and a natural lip gloss.